EFFECT OF USING RICE HUSK FOR CULTIVATION OF Pleurotus tuberregium (FR.) SINGER

Rice husk was evaluated as a possible substrate for cultivation of Pleurotus tuberegium. Three combinations as thus: loamy soil and manure, and rice husk with loamy soil proportional to 3:7, and rice husk 100% were done. Phytochemical screening and the proximate analyses of nutrient components of Pleurotus tuberregium sclerotia were carried out. The mean values of stipe and pileus of Pleurotus tuberegium in rice husk with addition of loamy soil and manure were 30.57cm and 30.52 cm. While the mean values of the stipe and pileus of Pleurotus tuberegium in rice husk with addition of loamy soil were 16.86cm and 9.77cm respectively. The mean of the stipe growth showed an increasing trend on day 4. While the pileus was generally higher throughout day 7 for rice husk with additive of loamy soil and manure. Proximate evaluation of fat, ash and carbohydrate content showed significant increase (P<0.05) while there were presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins at moderate rate. Rice husk identified as essential substrate showed increase in the yield production of Pleurotus tuberegium and is therefore advised to harvest at interval of (7) seven days.